Each year, our WLC Lunch & Learn brings women together to connect, learn, and leave inspired—and this year’s response was so great that we had to move to a larger space! First Presbyterian Church of Dalton graciously opened its doors to host us right in the heart of downtown Dalton for an afternoon filled with meaningful conversation, local history, and plenty of connection.

The Story Behind Tufted

Rachel gave guests a special look at the journey behind writing Tufted, sharing the history, relationships, and community support woven throughout its creation.

The children’s book tells the story of Catherine Evans Whitener and celebrates a piece of Northwest Georgia history that continues to shape our community today. Rachel shared how the idea grew from a story worth preserving into a book that will introduce a new generation to Catherine’s creativity, determination, and lasting impact.

Her presentation was a beautiful reminder that some of the best stories are found right here at home—and that sharing those stories can inspire the next generation.

The Power of Literacy

At United Way of Northwest Georgia, literacy is a key part of creating opportunities for our young people.

Books do more than help children learn to read. They open doors, spark curiosity, introduce new ideas, and help young people see what is possible for their own futures. That made Rachel’s message and the story behind Tufted an especially meaningful fit for our Women’s Leadership Council.

Through United Way’s literacy initiatives, WLC continues to champion opportunities that help local children learn, grow, and thrive.

An Afternoon of Connection

Of course, a WLC Lunch & Learn wouldn’t be complete without time to connect!

Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch from Smith House Restaurant while catching up with friends and making new connections before hearing from Rachel. After the presentation, attendees had another opportunity to visit, take photos at our Tufted photo booth, and continue the conversations sparked throughout the afternoon.

A special thank you to First Presbyterian Church of Dalton for hosting us and Smith House Restaurant for providing our delicious lunches.

And most importantly, thank you to Rachel Smalley for sharing the heart behind Tufted with us. We loved getting a behind-the-scenes look at the book and hearing how so many pieces of our community came together to help bring this story to life.

That’s a Wrap!

To the more than 70 women who joined us: thank you! Whether you are a longtime WLC member or joined us for the first time, we are so glad you spent your lunch hour with us.

The Women’s Leadership Council is about bringing women together around a shared desire to make Northwest Georgia stronger. Through giving, learning, volunteering, and connecting, our members are helping create lasting change for our neighbors and our community.

Interested in learning more about the Women’s Leadership Council and how you can get involved? Visit our website or follow @unitedwaynwga on social media to stay connected!